West Harrison MS/HS Student Handbook
Welcome
District policy clearly outlines what your school should provide you. So that you can help staff members attain these
outcomes, the Mission Statement of West Harrison Community Schools is reproduced below.
Mission Statement
We believe in excellence in education through academics, activities, and innovative opportunities for each individual to
achieve his or her potential.
Policy on the Treatment of Individuals with Disabilities as per Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
It is the policy of the West Harrison Community School not to discriminate against any otherwise qualified individual
with disability, solely by reason of his/her disability, in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, any
program or activity sponsored by the school.
Inquires regarding compliance with this policy should be directed to Mr. Joel Foster, the Section 504\ADA coordinator of
West Harrison Community School, 410 Pine, Mondamin, Iowa 51557
(Phone #712-646 2231) or to the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC.
Multicultural, Nonsexist Education
It is the policy of the West Harrison Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, national origin,
creed, age, marital status, or physical disability in its educational programs, activities or employment policies.
It is also a policy of this district that the curriculum content and instructional materials utilized reflect the cultural and
racial diversity present in the United States and the variety of careers, roles, and life styles open to women as well as men
in our society. One of the objectives of the total curriculum and teaching strategies is to reduce stereotyping and to
eliminate bias on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, religion, and physical disability. The curriculum should foster respect
and appreciation for the cultural diversity found in our country and an awareness of the rights, duties, and responsibilities
of each individual as a member of a multicultural, nonsexist society.
It is the policy of the West Harrison Community School District to maintain a learning and working environment that is
free from harassment.
It shall be a violation of this policy for students to harass other students or staff through conduct of a sexual nature or
conduct designed to reduce the dignity of that individual with respect to race, color, creed, religion, national origin,
gender, age, disability, marital status, or any other form of harassment.
School employees shall be responsible for promoting understanding and acceptance of, and assuring compliance with,
state and federal laws and board policy and procedures governing harassment within the school setting.
Violations of this policy or procedure will be cause for disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Students who
believe they have suffered harassment shall report such matters in a timely manner to a teacher, counselor, or a building
administrator.
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Beliefs
The following belief statements reflect the fundamental values and priorities of the West Harrison Public Schools.
CHILDREN ARE IMPORTANT - We believe:
1. That our schools exist for all the children of all the people.
2. That we need to know each child as an individual, their strengths, their problems, their interests, their aspirations, and
their needs.
3. That we need to make provisions for all children to participate as individuals and as members of groups in order:
a. to have a sense of belonging
b. to grow in creative powers
c. to solve problems-plan, decide, act, evaluate
d. to appreciate other people and to accept responsibility
4. That we have a major responsibility in developing children who are healthy in body and mind.
WE DEVELOP CAPABLE CITIZENS - We Believe:
That all pupils need to learn to be active, functioning citizens of a constantly changing world.
a. by acquiring competence in the basic tools of learning—health, arithmetic, reading, listening, spelling, and
writing.
b. by growing in their knowledge and understanding of geography, history, science and government, in their
appreciation of literature, music, and art, and in their selection of and training for a suitable vocation.
c. by living democratically in the schools to acquire a love of and appreciation for the American way of life.
d. by enjoying the privileges and accepting the responsibilities of citizenship.
WE SET THE STAGE FOR LEARNING - We Believe:
That learning takes place best:
a. when the experiences planned are in keeping with the developmental growth of pupils.
b. when activities are vital and meaningful to those participating.
c. when the experiences are cooperatively planned and carried out by teachers and pupils.
d. when a stimulating and happy environment is provided.
e. when there are a great variety of active learning experiences.
f. when pupils set for themselves high quality standards in work habits and workmanship.
g. when pupils are aware of their own goals and of their progress toward these goals.
EDUCATION ENCOMPASSES MANY ASPECTS OF TRAINING AND LEARNING We Believe: Our school program must provide opportunity for:
a. growth in social skills.
b. self- expression and development of special talents.
c. attaining competence in self-direction and self-evaluation.
d. development of sound moral attitudes and values.
e. mastery of the tools of learning, better identified, as the 3-R’s, i.e., communication and computation.
f. development of habits conducive to mental and physical health.
g. exploration of the natural environment.
h. orientation to and appreciation for our cultural heritage.
i. cultivation of the ability to think inductively and deductively.
j. building habits of intelligent listening and observation.
WE LOOK FOR ALL-AROUND GROWTH - We Believe: That education is a process of growth, not just the
accumulation of information, and may result in changes in behavior, thinking, and feeling.
WE NEVER STOP LEARNING - We Believe: That education is a life-long process and schools have a responsibility to
help adults by offering instruction in vocations, vocational interests, home and family life problems, and citizenship
responsibilities.
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Communication
At West Harrison Community Schools we believe communication is a vital part of the educational process.
Communication needs to be a part of the school culture and is vital for student success. Communication between parents,
staff and students will lead to a positive school climate.
Abuse Reporting
The Iowa Department of Education rules (Ch.281-102, I.A.C.) require all Iowa school districts to publish the name of
level-one investigators who will determine jurisdiction and investigate all complaints of physical and sexual abuse of
students by school employees. Any person may sign a complaint, but such signing must be witnessed by another person
over age 18 to avoid false, frivolous and vexatious reports. Listed below are both the level-one investigator and his/her
alternates who may be contacted by any school employee asked to be interviewed during an investigation of abuse.
ONLY signed complaints witnessed by persons over age 18 must be referred to a designated level-one investigator in each
school district.
LEVEL-ONE INVESTIGATOR:
Lanae Chase, RN, Work Phone: 646-2231
ALTERNATE:
Mr. Mike Loftin, MS/HS Principal, Work Phone: 646-2231
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
What Are The Duties Of A Level-One Investigator?
Determine JURISDICTION by establishing that:
a. Incident OCCURRED in a school-related complex
b. The victim was a STUDENT at the time of the incident.
c. The alleged INCIDENT meets the definition of abuse.
d. The accused person is CURRENTLY employed by the district.
DEFERS any report of SEXUAL abuse to law enforcement of LEVEL-TWO investigator not employed by the
school.
DOES NOT determine GUILT or INNOCENCE!
CONCLUDES whether a complaint is founded or groundless.
LAW ENFORCEMENT is notified in founded cases of serious physical and all sexual abuse cases.
NOTIFIES level-two investigator of any founded cases of less serious physical or sexual abuse unless level-one
investigation has resulted in a final disposition of the investigation.
Introduction
This handbook is intended in general terms to describe some of the rights and responsibilities of students in the West
Harrison MS/HS and to set forth appropriate regulations governing student conduct.
A very fundamental lesson that must be learned by all of us is the lesson of discipline and self-discipline. Life is
constantly demanding some kind of discipline of us and the foundations laid here at school will form the basis for
happiness and success in later life.
In order to function properly, public school education must provide an equal learning opportunity for all students. In
addition to the regular curriculum, principles and practices of good citizenship must be taught and demonstrated. This
includes an appreciation for the rights of others. However, no school or school system can discharge these responsibilities
adopted for the benefit of all persons.
The rules and standards in this handbook apply to all school buildings or any school grounds during, immediately before,
or immediately after school hours. They also apply to any school-sponsored function or event whether on or off school
grounds. This handbook does not define all types and aspects of student conduct. However, the Board of Education has
the responsibility to set forth policies, rules and regulations to help students conduct themselves in a proper manner as
good citizens of a school community.
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Policy explanations in this handbook are superseded by any and all school board policies passed regarding any of
the items. Notification of any changes will be made available to students and parents. In addition, items may need to be
revised to meet new laws, regulations, or situations. Any questions related to them should be referred to the school
administration. This handbook is in effect until issuance of a new edition.
Middle School
District policy clearly outlines what your school should provide you. So that you can help staff members attain these
outcomes, the Mission Statement of West Harrison Community Schools is reproduced below.
Middle School Mission Statement
Creating, developing, and implementing a cooperative classroom environment through respect, consistency, and discipline
to give all middle school students the opportunity to reach their potential.
The goals of the West Harrison Middle School are:
1.
To create a learning environment which contains consistency and respect.
2.
To promote strong guidelines that would lead to self-discipline.
3.
To educate through interdisciplinary tactics.
4.
To offer students the opportunity to meet all of their needs by recognizing their
Multiply intelligences.
5.
To motivate student learning through the use of thematic units.
6.
To develop an attitude that reflects the importance of education in our world today.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Middle School Classroom Rules
Be in class seated prepared to work before the tardy bell (bring assignment book, paper, & writing utensil
regularly).
Maintain a positive attitude by respecting students’ right, school property, and teacher’s authority.
Complete assignments neatly, quietly, and on time.
Raise your hand to be recognized and speak in an appropriate manner.
Be an active learner by listening and participating.
Keep books covered at all times.
Accidents
It is the responsibility of each student to report any injury or accident to a teacher or to the office as soon as possible
following an accident. If medical treatment may be required, the accident report form must be completed within 24 hours
of the accident.
Activities
The following are the extracurricular activities at West Harrison High School, which are open to the student body,
depending upon grade level:
Football
Cross Country
Volleyball
Wrestling
Softball
Ambassador Club
Basketball
Track
Baseball
Drama/Speech
Dance/Drill Team
FFA
Cheerleading
Student Council
Jazz Band
National Honor Society
FCCLA
Skills USA
In keeping with good community relations, school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday nights after 6:00 p.m.
whenever possible. It shall be the responsibility of the principal to oversee the scheduling of school activities for
compliance of this policy.
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Student Fees for the 2011-2012 School Year
Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program
(FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are
eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived. Students whose families are experiencing a temporary
financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees. Parents or students who believe they may
qualify for a temporary financial hardship should contact the principal at registration for a waiver form. This waiver does
not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.
Activity Fees:
Grade 7-12 Consumable Items
Drivers Education
Instrumental rental for school owned
instruments
Activity Tickets
$30.00 per student
$225.00 per student
$40.00 per instrument
$30.00 Students
$45.00 Adults
Arrival and Departure at School
Students should not enter the building until 7:30 a.m. Students wishing to see individual teachers, attend scheduled
meetings, etc., will be allowed to enter the back hallways at any time if they have a pass or verbal permission from the
school official they wish to see. This pass should designate the date and time the student is to enter the back hallways and
should be signed by the appropriate school official. The doors to the halls will be locked and students are to remain in the
commons until 7:50 a.m., unless they have a pass to be in other parts of the building.
STUDENT MUST CHECK OUT IN THE PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE BEFORE LEAVING SCHOOL FOR ANY
REASON. FAILURE TO DO SO WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS.
Students detained after school for disciplinary reasons must arrange for their own transportation home from
school.
Students driving to school are to park their vehicles in the proper places and in a proper manner immediately upon arrival.
Students shall not leave the school and/or school grounds once they have arrived at school, either on the bus or in a
personal vehicle. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary actions. On the grounds, cars are to be driven in a safe
manner without quick acceleration or high speed. Speed limits are posted; please observe them. Students driving illegally
on a school permit will be referred to law enforcement officers.
Student Parking
The student parking lot is provided to the students to use and the use of the parking lot is a privilege and not a right. The
student parking lot is located on the East side of the building but does NOT include the spaces on the pavement from the
stop sign to the east door. Students should not be parked anywhere else on school grounds during the school day.
Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. will park in the East lot and enter the junior/senior high school through the North or main
entrance. All parking in the North lot is reserved for staff and guests. Vehicles, which are improperly parked will be
fined and may be towed away at the direction of the administration and at the expense of the owner or driver. The
following fines will be imposed for students who are improperly parked during the school day: $5.00 (1st time), $10.00
(2nd & 3rd time), $20.00 (additional times).
Students needing to go out to the parking lot during the school day must obtain permission from the office prior to going
out to the parking lot during the school day. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary actions. Students should drive
safely, avoid double parking of vehicles, and follow community laws. Student will need to drive and park carefully and
all state and local traffic regulations shall be observed on school property to avoid disciplinary actions and/or loss of the
privilege to drive/park on school grounds.
Each student driver will be given a West Harrison Student Parking tag at the beginning of the year with the expectation
that it will be turned in at the end of the year. The parking tags are to be displayed at all times when parking on school
property. If the tag is lost there will be a $5.00 replacement fee.
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Building Security
In an effort to assure security in a public building, it has become necessary to institute the following procedures.
a. All outside doors (eleven), except for the two Main entrances, will be locked at 8:15 a.m.
b. All students and guests entering the junior/senior high building after 8:15 a.m. will use the North Entrance to the
school commons or the Main Entrance to the elementary located on the west side of the elementary.
c. All guests arriving between 8:15 a.m. and 3:20 p.m. will need to be “buzzed” into the building.
d. All guests are requested to report to the junior/senior high office or elementary office, in order for school officials
to be aware of people in the buildings and must wear a visitor’s pass while in the school building.
Closed Campus
We operate a closed campus policy. Passes to leave the school grounds during school hours must be signed by the
principal or high school secretary. This consent is only given if a written excuse is brought from signed by a parent or
guardian. No student may leave the building once they have arrived at school without permission from the principal’s
office.
Dances
All dances must be approved by the principal two weeks prior to the event. The following rules will apply to all dances:
1. If a student leaves the dance for any reason he/she will not be admitted again.
2. No one will be allowed in the dance 60 minutes past the scheduled starting time.
3. All non-West Harrison students must be registered prior to the dance in order to be allowed to attend.
4. School sponsored dances must end by 12:00 a.m.
5. Dancing should be appropriate for the school setting.
6. The age limit for high school dances is students in 9th grade through 20 years of age.
Dress Code-INCLUDING PE
While students have the right to express themselves through their attire, this right is not absolute if it interferes with the
educational process. All attire should meet the standards of the institution so that other students or teachers are not
distracted from the educational process. Students in violation of this code will be asked to change to proper attire.
Repeated violation may result in further punitive action.
CLOTHING SHOULD BE OF AN APPROPRIATE SIZE. EXAMPLES OF PROHIBITED ATTIRE ARE: CLOTHING
THAT EXPOSES THE MIDRIFF, BACK OR SHOULDERS (NO TANK TOPS-MALE OR FEMALE), AND/OR
UNDER GARMENTS. OTHER PROHIBITED ATTIRE ARE HATS OR INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE, SEXUAL
INNUENDOS OR GRAPHICS ON CLOTHING. REFERENCES TO ALCOHOL AND/OR TOBACCO ARE ALSO
CONSIDERED INAPPROPRIATE. IF ANY STAFF MEMBER DEEMS A STUDENT’S CLOTHING TO BE
INAPPROPRIATE HE/SHE WILL BE REQUIRED TO CHANGE OR WILL BE SENT HOME.
Breakfast & Lunch Programs
Students will be allowed to eat breakfast and lunch through the school cafeteria. Breakfast is available from 7:45-8:00
and lunch is available during MS/HS lunch times. Students are allowed to bring sack lunches from home if they do not
like the food available to purchase in the cafeteria. Outside food and drinks, such as items purchased at a restaurant, are
not allowed during either Breakfast or Lunch times.
Bulletin Boards
Before a student will be allowed to post a notice on any bulletin board, he/she must have the approval of the principal.
Buses
Video Cameras on School Buses
The West Harrison Community School District Board of Directors has authorized the use of video cameras on the school
district buses. The video cameras will be used to monitor student behavior to maintain order on the school buses to
promote and maintain a sage environment. Student and parents are hereby notified that the content of the videotapes may
be used in a student disciplinary proceeding. The content of the videotapes are confidential student records and will be
retained with other student records. Videotapes will only be retained as necessary for use in a student disciplinary
proceeding or other matter as determined necessary by the administration.
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Bus Rules
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Obey the driver at all times.
Remain seated while the bus is in motion.
Keep head, arms, body and feet inside the windows.
Keep hands and feet out of the aisles.
Do not scuffle, yell, throw objects, litter, destroy school or personal property of others, or create
disturbances deemed unsafe by the driver or proprietor.
6. Use appropriate language at all times. Use of abusive, profane, or obscene language and gestures
prohibited.
Buses are extensions of the classroom. All expectations of students in the classroom are in force as they ride to and
from school on West Harrison buses.
1st
Offense
2nd
Offense
rd
3
Offense
th
4
Offense
5th
Offense
Elementary
Written Warning from
Driver/Principal
1st Written Violation
3 days after school. Parents
notified by principal.
Middle School
Written Warning from
Driver/Principal
1st Written Violation.
5 day suspension from riding.
Parents notified by principal.
2nd Written Violation
3 day suspension from riding.
Parent-student conference with
Principal/Driver before
reinstatement.
3rd Written Violation
5 day suspension from riding.
Parent-student conference with
Principal/Driver before
reinstatement.
4th Written Violation
10 day suspension from riding.
Parent conference with
Superintendent and Driver prior
to reinstatement.
2nd Written Violation
10 day suspension from riding.
Parents-student conference with
Principal/Driver before
reinstatement.
3rd Written Violation
20 day suspension from riding.
Parent-student conference with
Principal/Driver before
reinstatement.
4th Written Violation
30 day suspension from riding.
Parent conference with
Superintendent and Driver prior to
reinstatement.
High School
Written Warning From
Driver/Principal
1st Written Violation
10 day suspension from
riding. Parents notified by
principal.
2nd Written Violation
Lose all bus privileges for 20
consecutive school days.
Parents notified by principal.
3rd Written Violation Lose all
bus privileges for one
calendar year. Parents
notified by Superintendent.
Once a student has received a written violation (Bus Conduct Notice), he/she may automatically assigned a seat for
the remainder of the school year by the driver.
Electronic Equipment
High school students may use their cell phones before school, during their lunch shift, or after school in the COMMONS
only. High school students may also listen to music on IPODS, MP3 players or other devices if no one else is able to hear
the music and it is allowed by the teacher they are with, at that teacher’s discretion. They will not be allowed in the
hallway. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. In the event of an emergency, students will be
required to turn their cell phones in to their teachers immediately.
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Camera Phones/Cell Phones
Camera phones will not be allowed in school at any time. If a student is caught using one to transmit photos he or she will
face suspension or possible expulsion. The severity of the suspension will depend on the age of the student committing
the violation and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The school will confiscate any camera/cell phone used at a time not specified for use. It will be kept in the principal’s
office. The following consequences will result if a student is found to be using a camera/cell phone at school during nonspecified times.
1st offense:
student will be given a warning and the phone will be returned to the student at the end of the
school day
nd
2 offense:
a parent/guardian must come to school to claim the item for the student and the student will
receive a detention
3rd offense:
a parent/guardian must come to school to claim the item for the student and the student will
receive an In-School Suspension
4th offence:
a parent/guardian must come to school to claim the item for the student and the student will
receive a suspension from school
Emergency Routines
Each classroom will have posted the route for people in that room to use when exiting the building during a fire
alarm/tornado drill. In accordance with the law, fire drills will be conducted at different times of the day. All fire alarms
should be treated as actual fires and the building should be cleared as quickly and as orderly as possible. Cell phone use
is prohibited by anyone during an emergency situation!
Fund - Raising
All fund-raising drives must be approved by the School Board. All requests must be submitted in writing, including the
purpose of the fund raiser and what the funds will be used for, to the principal for the board approval. All submissions
should be in by the first of each month prior to their occurrence.
Insurance
A policy insuring students against accidental injury while on the way to or from school, or while engaging in an
authorized school activity is available to students at low cost. The insurance is furnished by a private agency. The school
acts only to collect fees and to verify claims. All athletes must carry insurance or have a waiver. Your insurance form or
waiver must be signed by your parents stating that they have their own coverage. This form must be in the principal’s
office before practice begins.
Lockers
Lockers will be assigned for student use. The lockers may be used by the student but remain the property of the school
and therefore, may be examined by the principal or his/her representative. Pornographic material or materials promoting
the use of drugs and/or alcohol are forbidden. The lockers are school property and may be searched or examined if there is
a reason to suspect school rules or regulations are being violated. DO NOT SHARE YOUR LOCKER
COMBINATION WITH ANYONE! Students wishing to change lockers must pickup a form in the office and obtain
the proper signatures prior to changes. No food or drinks should be kept in the lockers. Students who damage their
lockers will be subject to potential disciplinary actions and fines. Students should not “jam” their lockers open.
Students who, for whatever reason, bring large amounts of money to school are encouraged to check it in at the principal’s
office upon arrival and check it out again just prior to leaving the building. Money brought to school for fund-raising
should be turned into the appropriate sponsor/advisor immediately upon arrival. The school is not responsible for money
or valuables stolen from lockers, purses, etc.
Lost and Found
All lost and/or found items should be reported and/or turned into the Principal’s office. Items not claimed at the end of
each semester will be turned over to a charitable organization.
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Nurse
The school nurse is located in a room near the general office. If a student becomes ill or injured during school hours,
he/she must check with the nurse or the office secretary before leaving the building. Failure to check out before leaving
the building may result in the absence being designated as UNEXCUSED. Parents will be contacted to make
arrangements for proper and safe conveyance home if it is necessary for the student to go home. STUDENTS SHOULD
NOT CALL HOME USING A CELL PHONE TO OBTAIN PERMISSION TO LEAVE SCHOOL. Using a cell phone
to contact parents can result in a detention and the absence being designated as UNEXCUSED. If the student is out with a
contagious disease, the student must present a signed permit by a doctor of medicine allowing entry into school. If, for
medical reasons, a student cannot participate in physical education or other school activities, a note from their doctor
stating the reason and the length of time involved must be presented.
Exclusion for Communicable Diseases
The West Harrison Community School board policy states that students with contagious diseases may be excluded from
school for the period of time that their condition may endanger the health of others. A signed permit from a doctor may
be required for re-entry if so designed by the Superintendent or his representative.
If you have questions, contact the school and refer to board policy 504.2-R.
We recommend that you keep your child home and contact a physician if your child has any of the following symptoms:
 Fever over 100 F
 Heavy cold and hacking cough
 A rash
 Vomiting
 Diarrhea
 Earache
 Persistent or severe stomach ache
If your child has any of the above symptoms while at school, you will be contacted to pick your child up.
Medication
School personnel will provide pupils ibuprofen or acetaminophen with signed parental consent. If a student must take
medication from home he/she must bring the medication to the office with written instructions from the physician.
Students that are found to have medication in their possession shall be disciplined accordingly.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
West Harrison High School will host parent-teacher conferences twice during the school year. The date, time, location and
other information will appear in school calendars and newsletters. In addition, parent-teacher conferences may be
arranged anytime during the year at the request of either the parent or the teacher. To arrange a parent conference, call the
principal’s office (646-2231)
Replacement of Damaged or Missing Textbook
The West Harrison Community School District furnishes the textbooks, workbooks, and classroom materials needed for
participation in classes. A student who loses a book, workbook or classroom materials, cause excessive wear to these
items to the point they will not be usable the student and parent will be billed for the cost using the following criteria:
First and Second year: Charged full cost
Third and Fourth year: Charged 50% of cost
Fifth year on: Charged 25% of cost
ALL TEXTBOOKS SHOULD BE COVERED TO AVOID BEING BILLED FOR DAMAGES.
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School Closing
In the event that weather prohibits the holding of school, or in case parents desire to come after students when adverse
weather occurs, the notice will be given to KDSN 1530, KMA 960 and KFAB radio stations and local TV stations.
Students should not call the principal’s or superintendent’s home telephone to inquire about school cancellation.
Study Halls
While individual teachers may establish additional rules for their individual study halls, the following rules will be
enforced.
1. Students are to be quiet and working on academic assignments. Students may talk only if they are working on an
academic assignment together. This talking should be non-disruptive and will be limited to a specified amount of time
by the study hall teacher.
2. CD, MP3 or I-Pods, electronic games, games, i.e. card playing, etc., will be allowed ONLY at teacher discretion.
3. Students may go to the restroom, to get a drink, to their locker or to the office with the permission of the study hall
teacher. Appropriate limits as to the number out at any one time and length of departure will be established by the
study hall teacher.
4. Only passes from other teachers may be used other than for the purposes specified in Item 3.
STUDY HALLS ARE PLACES FOR STUDENTS TO STUDY.
THEY ARE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO COMPLETE THEIR WORK, BUT STUDENTS ARE
ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLETING THEIR WORK.
Telephone Usage
Students are not to use the phone during class periods. Students will be called to the phone from classes in the case of an
emergency. Students may use the phone during their lunch period, before school and after school with prior approval from
the principal or office secretary. Students should ask to use the phone for emergency purposes only. Failure to do so
can result in loss of phone privileges and/or detention.
Transcripts
Transcripts will be forwarded to other schools only after all fees and fines have been paid in full. Credits will not be
forwarded if you owe the school money.
Visitors
Parents and other interested adults are urged to visit the school. People who come into the school to see a student or
teacher must stop in the office first. Students and teachers are not called from classes unless in an emergency. Students
will not be allowed to bring visitors to school with them to stay the entire day. Student may have visitors for lunch
provided that they obtain permission from the principal at least 24 hours in advance. The student and visitor must have
written permission from both sets of parents/guardians prior to being granted permission to visit West Harrison. The
principal reserves the right to refuse visitors.
Release of Student Information
The following information may be released to the public in regard to any individual student of the school district as
needed: Name, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of
members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, photograph and likeness and other similar
information.
In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names,
addresses and telephone listings.
Any student over the age of eighteen or parent not wanting this information released will be required to fill out the
form found at the end of this booklet, and return to the high school office by September 15, 2011. The objection
needs to be renewed annually.
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Welfare-Police Questioning and Apprehension
A student may be questioned in private and with confidentiality by a law enforcement officer at school, but in the
presence of the principal or someone designated by him.
The parent or guardian of the student questioned should be informed of the substance of the interview, before the
interview, by the questioning officer and/or school.
A student may be removed from the school by a law enforcement officer with parental consent, authorization by a judge,
legal arrest, at the request of the school, or if emergency conditions exist jeopardizing the health or safety of students.
Student Services
The student service office is located in the west part of the High School. Their primary purpose for being in the school is
for the benefit of each individual student. They are available throughout the school day and welcome the opportunity to
discuss your concerns with you. Above all, they are people who care about you as a student, about you as an individual,
and about the future for which you are preparing.
Some of the things student service personnel may do for you are:
1. respect you as an individual by keeping confidential the things you discuss.
2. assist you in dealing with your personal problems and in gaining a better understanding of yourself.
3. assist you in finding answers to the various questions you have about middle school, senior high, and education and
training following graduation from high school.
4. provide information about occupations, careers and vocations.
5. assist you in improving your study skills.
6. assist you in exploring your interests, abilities, and aptitudes.
Remember, when something is affecting your ability to concentrate and think clearly, and you are not sure what to
do about it, you might consider visiting with the student service office.
Middle School Requirements
If a middle school student carries a failing grade in two or more academic courses for the year, the student will repeat the
grade. If a single course is failed at the 7th grade level, then it is possible the student will have to retake the subject the
next year. Any regular education 8th grade student that fails the second half term of any class will be expected to retake
the entire class at the next scheduled time. Students will receive a letter grade for all courses taught in the middle school.
High School Requirements
Senior High Class Load
All students in grades 9-12 not involved in band and or vocal will be required to enroll in six (6) academic classes each
semester. A student taking band and or vocal will be required to enroll in a minimum of five academic classes. Possible
exceptions will be seniors with work-study and students with IEP’s requiring smaller number of classes.
Class Standing
Minimum requirements for class standings are established and students will be promoted to the next grade level after
earning the required number of credits.
Sophomore 11.5 credits
Junior 23 credits
Senior 34.5 credits
This is minimum number of credits needed to be promoted to the next grade level and to be on track to graduate with 46
credits.
Requirements for Graduation
Minimum requirements for graduation from West Harrison M.S.-Sr. High School have been established by the Board of
Education. Students may choose a course of study, which prepares them for college, or a course of study, which generally
prepares them to be contributing members of society after high school. Students must earn 46 credits to graduate.
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Successful completion of the following courses is required for graduation from West Harrison Community High School:
English: Including English 9 - 9th grade
Grammar/Composition and Introduction to Literature - 10th grade
Speech, Creative Writing - 11th grade
Electives - 12th grade
8 credits
Science: Including General Science, and Biology, or Earth Science
6 credits
Mathematics: Including three of the following courses:
Algebra 1-2, Algebra, Algebra II, Geometry Concepts,
Geometry, Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus
Social Studies: American History I & II and American Government, plus one
elective credit in Social Studies.
6 credits
6 credits
Physical Education: Four years of Physical Education. Two Credits
will given for successfully completing four (4) semesters of physical education,
and will be applied to the 46 credit requirements for graduation. State law
(256.25) requires that all students take physical education for four (4) years
unless they are exempted for a physical handicap or other reasons. All
exemptions for physical handicaps shall be certified in writing by a
physician, submitted to the Principal, and shall become part of the
student’s folder.
2 credits
Word Processing
1 credit
CORE: 11th or 12th grade
1 credit
Health
1 credit
Electives
22 credits
Mid Term Graduation: You have the option of graduating at the end of the first semester of your senior year. You must
meet all of the established graduation requirements and you must be approved by the board prior to graduation. To make
sure you meet all the requirements contact the guidance office and make arrangements to establish a mid-term graduation
plan by the end of September of the year you intended to graduate. Even though you are officially listed as a graduate at
the end of the first semester, you are allowed to attend school events and pay student rates and participate in
commencement exercises at the end of the year. Remember to contact the guidance office, because you must declare your
intention to graduate early.
Grades, Marking, Reporting Grades and Grade Reports
Grades will be automatically figured, assigned and reported to students and parents at the end of each quarter of the school
year. Students and parents are encouraged to obtain procedures, requirements and expectations from individual teachers to
insure understanding about how grades are figured. Grade reports may be withheld at the end of each semester if fees
and/or fines are owed at school. INCOMPLETE GRADES MUST BE REMOVED WITHIN THE FIRST TWO
WEEKS OF THE NEW QUARTER. ONLY THE BUILDING PRINCIPAL CAN EXTEND THE TIME FRAME
AFTER DISCUSSING THE ISSUE WITH THE CLASSROOM TEACHER.
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Grading Scale
The following grading scale will be used in all classes by all teachers.
A+ ................................98-100
A……………………….93-97
A-………………………90-92
B+………………………87-89
B ....................................83-86
B-………………………80-82
C+……………………...77-79
C ....................................73-76
C-………………………70-72
D+………………………67-69
D ....................................63-66
D-………………………60-62
F ........................ 59 and below
Grades on report cards are computed on percentage. Honor roll and class rank are figured on the four (4) point system:
A= 4.0, A-=3.67, B=3.0, B+=3.33, B-=2.67, C=2.0, C+=2.33, C-=1.67, D=1.0, D+=1.33, D-=.67, F=0
Late Work
The West Harrison Staff believes that our purpose is for education and to prepare students for work in the “real world”
and stand behind the following policy regarding students turning in late assignments. Late work will be defined as
missing work that is not turned in even though the student was present when the work was assigned and was present when
the work was due. Students will be allowed ONE late assignment per quarter, per class and after that all late assignments
will be given no credit.
Academic Recognition
The West Harrison High School believes it is important to recognize its students for their academic achievements. West
Harrison High School will recognize their students with two specific types of academic recognition.
1. Principal’s Honor Roll: In order to qualify for the Principal’s Honor Roll recognition, a student must achieve an
average for the grading period of at least 3.5. All classes will be considered for the Principal’s Honor Roll.
2. Honor Roll: In order to qualify for the Honor Roll recognition, a student must maintain an average for the grading
period of at least 3.0
The following will be used for academic recognition at graduation ceremonies at West Harrison High School.
 Graduating with High Honors - 3.85 and above cumulative GPA
 Graduating with Honors - 3.70-3.849 and above cumulative GPA
Mid-term Reports
In addition to quarterly progress reporting, teachers will also complete mid-term reports 4 times throughout the school
year. Mid-term reports will be mailed home and contain information about student progress and performance. Parents
wishing to follow up on mid-term reports with conferences should contact the classroom teacher or principal’s office to
arrange appointments.
Incomplete Grades
Students receiving an incomplete on their report cards must have the work made up ten (10) days after the grading period
ends unless documented extenuating circumstances can be shown. Only the building principal can extend this time frame.
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Class Schedule Changes
Students are discouraged from changing classes once they have made class choices. Choices are made for the entire year
and will be changed only after following these steps:
1. The student must visit with both class instructor and the guidance counselor.
2. The student’s parents must communicate with the guidance counselor regarding the proposed change. A change in
class is contingent upon space available, permission of the new instructor, parents’ approval, approval of the guidance
counselor and the building principal.
3. Students’ schedules should be finalized during the first 3 DAYS OF A SEMESTER.
Attendance
General Attendance Policy
A. Policy Statement – Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience and is required of all
students to receive the maximum benefit of the educational program. The habit of good attendance established early,
is one which helps a person be successful throughout their lifetime. More and more, employers, colleges and
vocational schools expect good attendance and are checking attendance records for absences and tardies. They are
aware that good and prompt attendance indicates dependability in a student.
The education that goes on in the classroom builds from day to day and as a result, absences always cause some
disruption in the educational progress of the absent student. Students who are absent may not understand what the
teacher is currently presenting, and may also become discouraged with the double burden of keeping current and
making up missed work. In order to maintain interest and understanding in program of instruction, students should
not expect to be absent any more than is absolutely necessary. Irregular attendance or tardiness by students not only
retards their own studies, but also interferes with the progress of those students who are regular and prompt in
attendance. Attendance is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation and communication among students,
parents and school.
The following guidelines will be used in regards to student attendance issues:
 5+ absences – a letter will be sent home to the parents regarding the absences
 7+ absences – a letter will be sent home requesting a parental conference and the development of an
attendance agreement
 10+ absences – a letter will be sent to both the parents and county attorney regarding the absences
B. Absences – Excused – The administration will make the final determination if an absence is excused.
1. Students absent from school for any reason will be required by the school to submit a written explanation, phone
call or e-mail the day before or day of the absence. It should identify the specific reason for their absence, the
specific day and times they were absent, verification by doctor or dentist where appropriate, and a signature of the
parent. The student will be marked “absent-unexcused” until the parent confirms why the student was not
in school. See D for further details on “Absence-Unexcused.”
2. Classes missed because of attendance at a school-sponsored trip or activity will not be considered an absence.
However, the student will be required to make up work in advance in all other classes.
3. Acceptable reasons for a student’s absence from school are:
 personal illness (student may be asked for doctor excuse at any time)
 family emergencies
 doctor or dental appointment
 religious observances
 court appearance or other legal situations beyond the control of the family
 family vacations (work completed in advance)
 or as determined by the principal on an individual basis
C. Suspensions from class (either in-school suspensions or out-of-school suspension) will be treated as school-initiated
student absences and will not count toward the days absent. However, the student will be required to make up work
missed.
All absences that do not fall within the categories listed above are unexcused unless approved by the principal.
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D. Absences – Unexcused
The school will follow certain steps to keep parents informed concerning their student’s attendance record.
1. If a phone call or note is not received from the parent on the day their student is absent, the school will contact the
parent to confirm the absence.
2. In the event a student accumulates three or more unexcused absences per semester, the parents will be notified in
writing of these absences.
3. Excessive absences will be dealt with on an individual basis by the principal
4. Absences from school for the following reasons will generally be treated as unexcused absences:
 Shopping trips
 Chronic car problems
 Looking for a job or job interview
 Haircuts
 Truancy
 Oversleeping
 Personal student business
 Missing the bus
 Work for hire
E. Absences & Academic Credit
Students who accumulate a total of 10 or more unexcused absences will lose academic credit for the course in which
the absences were accumulated. A student who has lost academic credit due to unexcused absences will become
ineligible for all school sponsored activities for 30 Calendar days. This policy is intended to encourage good
attendance and will not come into effect with hospitalization, documented doctor’s orders or other emergency
situations. The principal reserves the right to examine each case individually.
F. Eligibility & Absences
Any student who is absent from school on the day of an interscholastic contest for any part or all of the class day shall
be ineligible to compete in interscholastic activities scheduled for the day unless the cause of their absence is of the
type for which an excused absence may be authorized. Authorization for the absences on the day of interscholastic
contests should be obtained from the principal’s office in advance of the absence. The provision of the above
regulation shall apply to student participation in ALL extracurricular activities of the school. (For example: band and
vocal groups, dramatics, athletic contests, etc.)
G. Truancy
If a student is absent and neither the school nor the parent knows the whereabouts of the student, the student will be
considered to be truant. Upon returning to school the following will occur:
1st offense - students will be assigned a detention equal to number of hours missed.
2nd offense - will be in-school suspension equal to two times the amount of time missed and a parent
conference with the principal.
3rd offense - will be out of school suspension for up to 10 days and a parent conference.
If truancy continues to be a problem, alternative programs may be discussed with the student and parent. The
administration reserves the right to refer chronic truancy issues over to the Harrison County District Attorney.
Tardiness
All incidents of class tardiness will be the responsibility of the teachers. All tardies will be reported to the office. The
principal will determine on a case by case basis if the tardy will be excused or not. The West Harrison tardy sanctions are
on a semester basis. The school will use the following two levels in dealing with unexcused tardies:
Level One: After the student has received three tardies in a class, the teacher of that class will assign them a detention.
Level Two: When a student reaches 10 tardies overall, they will serve an in-school suspension, as will they at each 5
subsequent tardies overall.
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Make-up Work
School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent. Teachers will not
accept any work that exceeds this time frame.
When students know ahead of time an absence will occur, it is the students’ responsibility to secure homework
assignments from the teachers and when appropriate, to complete all work for that teacher before the day the student is to
be absent. Make-up report absence forms should be used. Students must ask for this form in the office.
WHEN STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL FROM AN UNANTICIPATED ABSENCE, IT IS THE STUDENTS’
RESPONSIBILITY TO CLEAR THE ABSENCE IN THE OFFICE, SECURE MISSED ASSIGNMENTS, AND
COMPLETE ALL WORK MISSED. IF THE MISSED WORK IS NOT MADE UP BY THE DESIGNATED TIME,
STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE ZEROES FOR THE WORK NOT MADE UP.
Full credit shall be granted for work made-up from an absence. In cases of extended periods of absence because of
serious illness, family trip, etc., extensions may be granted by the teacher or the principal for completion of the work.
This policy is intended to encourage good attendance and will not come into effect with hospitalization, documented
doctor’s orders or other emergency situations. The principal reserves the right to examine each case individually.
Behavior Philosophy
The attainment of school goals and the assurance of the rights of all students to learn require the cooperation of all
students, parents, teachers, administrators, and support staff. Primarily students are responsible for their own behavior.
When behavior is determined to be inappropriate to the goals of the school, the responsibility for changing that behavior is
assumed by the student and parent. In general, a student should behave in such a way as to accomplish these goals.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
A student should establish positive relationships with fellow students and all of the school staff.
A student should respect the learning climate in classrooms and in the rest of the school.
A student should respect others’ property (including school property).
A student should obey instructions from staff members.
A student should respect himself or herself and take responsibility for actions in a mature manner.
A student should obey school rules.
Only through the three legs of support - the student, the parent, and the school - will a student be able to achieve the
mission of our community. All groups need to work together to understand and to cooperate for the benefit of the
educational process for the students of our district.
Student Behavior
It is impossible to list every situation in the student handbook, so administrators and teachers reserve the right to make
decisions about behavior not listed here. In an attempt to clearly define the goals listed above, we have listed expected
behaviors in specific situations. These guidelines apply in the classroom, in the school building, on school grounds, in
attendance at all school functions, and all students at West Harrison High School will be expected to:
1. Establish positive, friendly, student relationships void of the following:
a. Aggressive, bullying behavior
b. Overt acts of attention getting, thus disturbing others
c. Acts of character defamation of fellow students
d. Cheating or stealing
e. Excessive acts of student affection in or on school grounds
f. Acts of extortion, coercion, harassment or group ostracism in or on school property
g. Acts of fighting in or on school property
h. Use of foul language, obscene literature
i. Acts of gambling in or on school grounds
j. Displaying obscene literature
k. Misuse of student passes
l. Excessive, loud, disorderly conduct or behavior
m. Displaying poor eating manners
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2. Establish positive, friendly student to teacher/administrator relationships void of the following:
a. Acts of defiance of teacher/administrator directives or authority
b. Acts of disruption of the instructional process
c. Acts of disrespect
d. Stealing from staff members or the school district
e. Acts of physical aggression toward teacher/administrator
f. Acts of rudeness and poor manners
g. Acts of retaliation
h. Acts of lying or forgery
3. Students should develop appropriate behavior in the classroom void of the following:
a. Talking while instruction is taking place
b. Writing or passing notes during instruction
c. Sleeping in the classroom
d. Moving about the room without permission
e. Acts of noise-making that disrupt instruction
4. Students should develop appropriate behavior within the school building void of the following:
a. Failure to serve detentions within the prescribed time periods
b. Loitering in the halls during class periods
c. Running in the halls and/or not having a pass in the halls
d. Being in areas without permission
e. Not following attendance procedures
f. Not handing in required office forms
g. Public displays of affection.
5. Students must not bring to school or have in their possession items which could reasonably be constructed as
constituting a weapon in any form (knives, gun, clubs, and fireworks). Students are subject to a 1-year expulsion
for bringing a firearm to school or being in knowing possession of a firearm at school.
6. Students must refrain from all activities, which may result in the destruction of school property. This includes
breakage, marring, or destruction caused by fire or smoke for which the student is responsible.
7. Students are not to bring food or beverages into the school or store these items in their lockers.
VIOLATIONS OF THE ABOVE RULES ARE GROUNDS FOR DETENTION, SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION
FROM THE WEST HARRISON M.S.-SR. HIGH SCHOOL.
Disciplinary Procedures
Consequences of Behavior
A part of maturing is the understanding that there are always consequences for our behavior, either positive or negative. It
is a goal of the staff to find rewards for positive behaviors. When negative behaviors occur, it is also a goal for the staff to
find appropriate negative consequences. These consequences will be legal in nature. Consequences must also match the
seriousness of the behavior.
As such, West Harrison Community Schools will employ a system of discipline which works on a cumulative basis. The
following discipline matrix is developed in a way that will allow for consistency, firmness and fairness in the discipline
process. It is read across from the type of infraction, to the number of occurrences of this type of behavior. It is then
necessary to scan down to the type of discipline set forth for this infraction.
Our plan is to create a very positive concept about behavior and work to encourage students to respect adults,
themselves, and their fellow students. Rewarding students for good behavior is the primary objective, but consistent
consequences for negative behavior will be used for those instances where the student chooses to misbehave. The
ranges of penalties on these sheets are not all inclusive and offer an example of MINIMUM consequences for
misbehavior.
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Disruptive and Chronic Non-Achievement
The West Harrison High School works toward making every student successful. Despite the best efforts of a school
system, circumstances surrounding a student outside school may prevent a student from being successful in every
component of his/her educational program. Students with class work of such quality that they no longer have a chance to
receive a passing grade for the semester shall be re-assigned to an alternative educational opportunity if they in any way
detract from the learning of other students in the class. Prior to the re-assignment, parents will be presented with evidence
of disruption and non-achievement. The principal, or his/her designee, is given the responsibility of reassignment.
Depending upon the behavior exhibited by the student, different disciplinary procedures are used. A description of each
procedure follows:
Rewards for Students’ Positive Conduct – Middle School
The Middle School will have a reward program for those students who exemplify outstanding conduct. These rewards
will be given for the first two quarters and second semester, subject to the availability of funds. These rewards are
earned if a student has no in-school suspensions, no out-of-school suspensions, one detention, no substitute detentions,
and no office referrals.
Detentions
1. Detention hall may be held either in a teacher’s room or another location designated by the appropriate teacher from
3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. or from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. unless otherwise specified by the teacher or principal. Since
detentions are only assigned to students who earn them, students will not be allowed to make detentions up during
their free time. If students have other plans (i.e., work, activities, riding the bus, etc.), they are encouraged to adhere to
all school policies.
2. Student’s detentions begin when the student is seated and working in the appropriate seat. Detention generally will not
begin after 3:30 p.m. or before 7:30 a.m. without the teachers or principal’s approval. He/she will be asked to report
the next day detention hall is held and will serve one additional detention. Detention hall will be used to work on
academic work. IF A STUDENT DOES NOT BRING WORK, THE STUDENT MAY BE ASSIGNED WORK.
3. Students will be silent the entire detention period. Students will not be allowed to leave the detention hall setting to
get a drink, go to their locker, go to the restroom, etc. without permission of the monitor.
4. Failure to attend an assigned detention hall, without prior approval of the teacher or principal, will automatically
result in an additional detention hall assignment. STUDENTS MAY ONLY SERVE THREE CONSECUTIVE
DETENTIONS. Infractions that result in more than three detentions may cause the student to be suspended, in school,
for one to five days.
5. Students waiting for students serving a detention are to wait outside the building or, if severe weather exists, just
inside the entryway. Waiting students who create problems will be assigned a detention.
6. Students may be given a choice of making up the assigned detention (s): (a) the day the detention is assigned or (b)
the next day detention hall is held. The principal and the involved teacher’(s) reserve the right to void this option
when reasonable.
In-School Suspension
In-school suspension shall mean the student reports to the principal’s office at 8:00 a.m. and will remain in his/her office
or his/her designated place of suspension until 3:29 p.m. or until the principal approves the student’s dismissal. The
student will, if possible, receive credit for any daily work that other students may be graded on. Students may take tests
for credit under the supervision of the principal or his designee.
All students serving in-school suspension will adhere to the following rules:
1. The student must have work to do relating to courses of study.
2. The student must remain in a designated place of suspension until dismissed by the principal.
3. The student will not talk to anyone without approval by the principal.
4. The student may eat lunch in the suspension room and use the restroom facilities with permission of the principal.
5. The student is not allowed to bring coats or bags into the in-school suspension room.
Violation of in-school suspension rules will result in longer in-school suspensions, or out-of-school suspensions.
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Out-of-School Suspension
Short Term Suspension (up to ten school days)
Any student may be excluded from the West Harrison High School for a period of time not to exceed ten school days in
the following circumstances provided that the suspension is assigned under the guideline provided by Iowa State Law:
1. If the student has a dangerous communicable disease transmissible through normal school contacts and poses an
imminent threat to the health and safety of the school community;
2. If the student's conduct presents a clear threat to the physical safety of himself, herself, or others, or is so extremely
disruptive as to make temporary removal necessary to preserve the rights of other students to pursue an education.
Some of the activities or behaviors that could result in a short-term suspension are as follows:
A. Possession or use of tobacco on school property or at school sponsored activities (first offense, 3-day suspension;
second offense, 10-day suspension; third offense, expulsion);
B. Refusal to comply with reasonable standards of behavior or disrespectful behavior directed towards school staff or
building administrators.
C. Use of abusive or profane language;
D. Vandalism of property belonging to the school district, staff, or students;
E. Fighting
F. The theft of property belonging to the school district, the staff, or students;
G. Committing any other act or becoming involved in any other activity which disrupts the normal educational
opportunities for other students;
3. Conduct constituting grounds for expulsion or long-term suspension as set out in Iowa Law.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Procedures for short-term suspensions, detentions, probation, removal
from class for the remainder of a semester and in-school suspension.
The superintendent or building principal may suspend a student temporarily for a period of time not to exceed ten
school days, may impose detentions, place a student on probation or in-school suspension or remove a student from
class for the remainder of a semester for violation of a district policy, rule, regulation or directive. The type of
sanction shall be determined by the superintendent or building principal, with consideration given to the maturity of
the student, the offense committed, the history or prior offenses, and any other circumstances deemed pertinent.
The student shall be told orally or in writing of the charges against the student. If the student denies the charges,
he/she shall be given an opportunity to explain his/her side of the story and shall be given an explanation of the
evidence against the student. There need be no delay between the time of notice of the charges and the student’s
opportunity to respond. If the student does not deny the charges, or after the principal or superintendent hears the
student and makes a decision, the principal or superintendent shall notify the student of the terms of the disciplinary
action.
Students whose presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the
academic process may be immediately removed from school, with the above procedures to be followed as soon as
practicable.
The superintendent or principal shall attempt to inform the parent or guardian by phone or in person on the same day
of taking the disciplinary action. If a parent or guardian cannot be reached, the student shall remain on school property
until the close of the school day, unless the student poses a continuing danger to person or property or an ongoing
threat of disrupting the academic process.
Formal written notice of the disciplinary action taken shall be mailed or personally delivered to the parent or guardian
within two school days of the action with a copy forwarded to the superintendent.
A student who has been suspended may be readmitted only after a conference between the superintendent or building
principal, the student, and if possible, the parent or guardian.
Long-term Suspensions and Expulsion
(to be determined by the Board of Education)
Long-term suspensions shall mean the exclusion of a student from attendance in all schools within the West Harrison
Public School System for a period exceeding ten school days but less than twenty school days. Expulsion shall mean the
exclusion from attendance for a period of time not to exceed the remainder of the semester in which the infraction took
place. The following student conduct shall constitute grounds for a long-term suspension or expulsion subject to the
procedural provisions of Iowa State Law when such activity occurs on school grounds or during an educational function
or event off school grounds:
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1. Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or similar acts in a manner that constitutes a substantial
interference with school purposes.
2. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to private or school property, stealing or attempting to
steal private or school property of substantial value or repeated damage or theft involving private or school property
of small value;
3. Causing or attempting to cause physical injury to a school employee or to any student. Physical injury caused by
accident, self-defense, or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other
person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision;
4. Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of, or with the intent of, obtaining money or anything of value
from such student;
5. Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a
weapon shall result in a 1-year expulsion.
6. Engaging in the unlawful possession, selling, dispensing, or use of controlled substance or alcoholic liquor (See
Alcohol and Drug Rule).
7. Public indecency;
8. Sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault any school employee or any student if a complaint has been filed
by a prosecutor in a court of competent jurisdiction alleging that the student has sexually assaulted or attempted to
sexually assault the school employee or student. For conduct described in this subdivision, including sexual assaults
or attempted sexual assaults which occur off school grounds not at an educational function or event, if the student
attends the same school as the victim attends or is employed by, the student may be subject to mandatory
reassignment. The mandatory reassignment may be in addition to long-term suspension or expulsion.
9. Engaging in any other activity forbidden by the laws of the State of Iowa which activity constitutes a danger to other
students or interferes with school purposes.
Hearing Procedure for Long Term Suspensions and Expulsions.
A. By majority vote of the Board of Education, following a recommendation of the superintendent and/or building
principal, a student may be suspended for a period of time to be determined by the Board of Education (which may
exceed ten school days) or may be expelled from school for an indefinite period of time for a breach of discipline,
immorality, violation of district regulations and rules, or when the presence of the student is detrimental to the best
interest of the school. In addition, the Board of Education may expel any incorrigible child or any child who, in the
board’s judgment, is so abnormal that regular instruction would be of no substantial benefit to him/her, or any child
whose presence in school would be injurious to the health or morals of other pupils or the welfare of the school.
B. Written notice of the charges prompting the administrative recommendation of expulsion, notice of the district policy,
rule, or regulation alleged to have been violated, and notice of the time, place and date of the hearing shall be mailed
or delivered personally to the parent or guardian. If the student is married or is eighteen years of age or older and is
not residing with a parent or guardian, notice shall be given to the student. Such notice shall also be given to the board
president.
C. A hearing before a majority of the Board of Education shall be held no sooner than five school days of the mailing of
or personal delivery of the notice to the parent or guardian or student. The hearing shall be held no later than ten
school days following the mailing or personal delivery of the notice. In the event the parent or guardian or student
request additional time and the student is suspended pending the hearing, the student shall continue to be suspended
until the date of the hearing.
D. The student may be accompanied to the hearing or be represented by a parent(s) or guardian(s) and/or legal counsel or
any other advisor of his/her choice. The administration and/or Board of Education may also be advised by legal
counsel or any other advisor of its choice.
E. At the hearing, each party shall have an opportunity to testify on his/her own behalf, introduce evidence, present
witnesses, submit statements orally or in writing and question any witnesses. The hearing shall be administrative in
nature and shall not be governed by formal rules of evidence or procedure.
F. If a party to the hearing should conduct himself/herself in a manner disruptive of the hearing the Board or Education
may exclude him/her and proceed with the hearing as if he/she had not personally appeared.
G. The hearing shall be in closed session of the Board of Directors unless an open session is requested by the student or a
parent or guardian of the student if the student is a minor. In the event the student or parent or guardian requests an
open session, it shall be deemed a waiver of confidentiality of any personal information regarding the student
contained in records or writings uses at the hearing.
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H. If the student or his/her representative fails to appear at the hearing or if he/she desires to make no response, the
administration shall nevertheless submit evidence in support of the recommendation to expel.
I. A transcript and/or tape recording shall be made of the hearing.
J. At the conclusion of the hearing, the board shall consider all relevant evidence introduced at the hearing and shall
make a decision. The board shall meet in open session and by roll call vote, entered in the minutes, make a decision
on the merits. The board may adopt, modify or deny the administration’s recommendation.
K. Within five days following the conclusion of the hearing, written findings of fact and conclusions of law shall be sent
to or personally delivered to the parent or guardian or student or his/her representative.
L. At the time of suspension or expulsion, the board may determine whether the student should have access to programs
or whether the student should be excluded from all programs of the district.
M. A student may be readmitted to school following a suspension or expulsion by the Board of Education only upon
action by the Board of Education.
Probation
Probation is conditional attendance during a trial period. Probation may be imposed by the principal or other person
in charge of the attendance center for infractions of school rules that do not warrant the necessity of removal from
school. The following procedures shall be followed.
1. The principal or other person in charge of the attendance center shall conduct an informal investigation of the
allegations against the student prior to imposition of probationary status.
2. Such investigation shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:
a. Written documentation from the teacher or school employee referring the student to the office shall be
submitted to the building principal prior to the end of that school day. Documentation shall include date, time,
and nature of rule infraction.
b. Written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against him/her and an opportunity to respond.
B. Probation status may be imposed for a period of 30 school days.
1. Should the student breach the condition imposed for probation, the student shall have more severe penalties, such
as suspension imposed. An investigation similar to that for the informal investigation above shall be made to
determine whether the condition imposed has been breached.
2. Written notice of the probation and the reasons therefore shall be sent to the student’s parents or legal guardians
no later than the school day following the day probation was imposed.
A.
Student-To-Student Harassment
Harassment of students by other students will not be tolerated in the school district. This policy is in effect while
students are on school grounds, school district property, or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district;
while on school-owned and/or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away
from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management of the school district and
directly affects the welfare of the student and school district.
Harassment prohibited by the school district includes, but is not limited to, harassment, including bullying, on the basis
of race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status or disability. Students whose behavior is found to be in
violation of this policy after an investigation be disciplined, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.
Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct
of a sexual nature when such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance
or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.
Sexual harassment as set out above, may include, but is not limited to the following:





verbal or written harassment or abuse;
pressure for sexual activity;
repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications;
unwelcome touching;
suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one's
grades, achievements, etc.
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Harassment on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, marital status or disability means conduct of a
verbal or physical nature that is designed to unreasonably embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students when
such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an
intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.
Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following:




verbal, physical or written harassment, bullying or abuse;
repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.;
demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.
The district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment.
responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging harassment.
The building principal will be
Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a
harassment investigation or proceeding is also prohibited, however, the superintendent has the right to discipline
students who knowingly file false harassment complaints. A student who is found to have retaliated against another in
violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion. .
It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the investigator and principals, to develop
administrative rules regarding this policy. The superintendent will also be responsible for organizing training programs
for students and employees. The training will include how to recognize harassment and what to do in case a student is
harassed. It will also include effective harassment prevention strategies. The superintendent will also develop a process
for evaluating the effectiveness of the policy by reducing harassment in the school district. The superintendent shall
report to the board on the progress of reducing harassment in the school district.
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HARASSMENT COMPLAINT FORM
Name of complainant:
Position of complainant:
Date of complaint:
Name of alleged harasser:
Date and place of incident or incidents:
Description of misconduct:
Name of witnesses (if any):
Evidence of harassment, i.e., letters, photos, etc. (attach evidence if possible):
Any other information:
I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.
Signature:
Date:
/
/
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WITNESS DISCLOSURE FORM
Name of witness:
Position of witness:
Date of testimony, interview:
Description of incident witnessed:
Any other information:
I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.
Signature:
Date:
/
/
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Student-To-Student Harassment Investigation Procedures
Students who feel that they have been harassed should:
 If the student is comfortable doing so, the student should communicate to the harasser that the student expects
the behavior to stop. If the student wants assistance communicating with the harasser, the student should ask a
teacher, counselor or principal to help.
 If the harassment does not stop, or the student does not feel comfortable confronting the harasser, the student
should:
-- tell a teacher, counselor or principal; and
-- write down exactly what happened, keep a copy and give another copy to the teacher, counselor or
principal including;
 what, when and where it happened;
 who was involved;
 exactly what was said or what the harasser did;
 witnesses to the harassment;
 what the student said or did, either at the time or later;
 how the student felt; and
 how the harasser responded.
Complaint Procedure
A student who believes that the student has been harassed will notify Mr. Loftin, the designated investigator. The
alternate investigator is Mr. Foster. The investigator may request that the student complete the Harassment Complaint
form and turn over evidence of the harassment, including, but not limited to, letters, tapes, or pictures. Information
received during the investigation is kept confidential to the extent possible.
The investigator, with the approval of the principal, or the principal has the authority to initiate a harassment
investigation in the absence of a written complaint.
Investigation Procedure
The investigator will reasonably and promptly commence the investigation upon receipt of the complaint. The
investigator will interview the complainant and the alleged harasser. The alleged harasser may file a written statement
refuting or explaining the behavior outlined in the complaint. The investigator may also interview witnesses as deemed
appropriate.
Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator will make written findings and conclusions as to each allegation
of harassment and report the findings and conclusions to the principal. The investigator will provide a copy of the
findings of the investigation to the principal.
Student-To-Student Harassment Investigation Procedures
Resolution of the Complaint
Following receipt of the investigator's report, the principal may investigate further, if deemed necessary, and make a
determination of any appropriate additional steps which may include discipline, up to and including, suspension and
expulsion.
Prior to the determination of the appropriate remedial action, the principal may, at the principal's discretion, interview
the complainant and the alleged harasser. The principal will file a written report closing the case and documenting any
disciplinary action taken or any other action taken in response to the complaint. The complainant, the alleged harasser
and the investigator will receive notice as to the conclusion of the investigation.
POINTS TO REMEMBER IN THE INVESTIGATION
 Evidence uncovered in the investigation is confidential.
 Complaints must be taken seriously and investigated.
 No retaliation will be taken against individuals involved in the investigation process.
 Retaliators will be disciplined up to and including suspension and expulsion.
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CONFLICTS
If the investigator is a witness to the incident, the alternate investigator shall investigate.
Special Provisions Relating To Physical Attacks or Threats to School Personnel
All threats of violence, whether oral, written or symbolic, against students, staff or to school facilities are prohibited. All
such threats will be promptly investigated. Law enforcement may be contacted. Threats issued and delivered away from
school activities may be grounds for disciplinary action if the threat impacts the orderly and efficient operation of the
school.
Students engaging in threatening behavior will face disciplinary consequences up to and including expulsion.
The following factors will be considered in determining the extent to which a student will be disciplined for threatening or
terrorist behavior: the background of the student, including any history of violence or prior threatening behavior; the
student’s access to weapons of any kind; the circumstances surrounding the threat; the age of the student; the mental and
emotional maturity of the student; cooperation of the student and his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) in the investigation;
the existence of the student’s juvenile or criminal history; the degree of legitimate alarm or concern in the school
community created by the threat; and any other relevant information from any credible source. The procedures for
suspensions and expulsions have been outlined in previous pages under the Short Term and Long Term Suspension
heading.
Special Provisions Relating To Damage to School Property
In the event a student violates any district rule regarding damage to school property, (See Section 502.2 1-14), the student
shall compensate the district for such damage or shall be required to perform services for the district for a period of time
until the damage is compensated for. Each hour of work by the student shall be calculated to compensate the district at the
minimum wage requirement. The student may also be disciplined by any other means set forth in this policy, dependent
upon the severity of the damage, the circumstances of the incident and the prior history of the student.
Student Eligibility for Extra-Curricular Activities
Extra-curricular activities are generally regarded as those activities, which require active participation during hours
outside of the normal school day. The following activities are extra-curricular activities: Baseball, Basketball (boys and
girls), Cheerleading, Cross-Country, Drama/Speech, Football, Music (Pep, Jazz, and all vocal groups), Plays (all school),
Softball, Student Council, Honor Society, Honor Schedule, Dance Team, Track (boys & girls), Volleyball, and Wrestling.
A student must be in school the entire day to be eligible to participate in any activity or practice; unless the school day is
reflective of the student’s schedule or the principal has excused the student.
A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport
during the same season. Such outside participation shall not conflict with the school sponsored athletic activity.
The policy for extra-curricular activities remains in effect for the school year and during the summer. Every participant
will begin each school year with a new start.
Student Eligibility – Middle School and High School
1.
Grades will be checked every Friday for eligibility.
2.
At the midterm of a quarter students who have 59% or below in one class or more
will be ineligible for one week starting the Monday after midterms are posted. Students will remain ineligible on a
week to week basis until all classes are brought up to passing. Midterm will fall on the 4th Friday of each quarter.
3.
If a student is not failing at midterm, but is failing at the end of the 5th week they then become ineligible for one
week until all grades are passing.
4.
If a student fails a class for the quarter, the student becomes ineligible until the midterm of the next quarter.
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5.
If a student fails a class for the semester the student falls under the state rule of thirty days ineligibility.
GOOD CONDUCT RULE Code No. 503.4
Participation in school activities is a privilege. School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and
abilities in the students during their school years and for a lifetime. Students who participate in extracurricular activities
serve as ambassadors of the school district throughout the calendar year, whether away from school or at school. Students
who wish to have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with
board policy and must refrain from activities which are illegal, immoral, or unhealthy. Students who fail to abide by this
policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures. The principal shall keep
records of violations of the good conduct rule. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to adopt rules and
regulations for school activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by
the school district for participation in the activity.
STUDENT ELIGIBILITY FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The Board of Directors of the West Harrison School District offers a variety of voluntary activities designed to enhance
the classroom education of its students. Students who participate in extracurricular activities serve as ambassadors of the
school throughout the calendar year, whether away from or at school. Students who wish to exercise the privilege of
participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from
activities that are illegal, immoral, unhealthy, or highly inappropriate. Participation in these activities is a privilege,
conditioned upon meeting the eligibility criteria established by the board, administration, and individual activity coaches
and sponsors. The principal and/or activities director shall keep records of violations of the Good Conduct Rule.
The board's policy and these rules cover any activity where the student represents the school or shared athletic program
outside the classroom, other than social events.
Good Conduct Rule
To retain eligibility for participation in West Harrison extracurricular activities, students must conduct themselves as good
citizens both in and out of school at all times. Students who represent the school in an activity are expected to serve as
good role models to other students and to the members of the community.
Any student who, after a hearing at which the student shall be confronted with the allegation, the basis of the allegation,
and given an opportunity to tell the student's side, is found to have violated the school's Good Conduct Rule will be
deemed ineligible for a period of time, as described below. A student may lose eligibility under the Good Conduct Rule
for any of the following behaviors:



possession, use, or purchase of tobacco products, regardless of the student's age;
possession, use, or purchase of alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine (having the odor of alcohol on one's
breath is evidence of "use");
being in attendance at a function or party where the student knows or has reason to know that alcohol or other
drugs are being consumed illegally by minors and failing to leave despite having a reasonable opportunity to do
so such as
1. Leave immediately. An intention to leave is not a defense, nor is being the "designated driver."
2. Apply "reverse" peer pressure to convince the persons responsible for bringing the contraband
substances to leave the party and take the drugs/alcohol with them.
3. Otherwise get rid of the offending substances. (Flush or pour, but do not consume!)
4. Stay and risk loss of eligibility for extracurricular activities.


possession, use, purchase, or attempted sale/purchase of illegal drugs, or the unauthorized possession, use,
purchase, or attempted sale/purchase of otherwise lawful drugs;
engaging in any act that would be grounds for arrest or citation in the criminal or juvenile court system greater
than a simple misdemeanor, regardless of whether the student was cited, arrested, convicted, or adjudicated for the
act(s);
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

exceedingly inappropriate or offensive conduct such as assaulting staff or students, gross insubordination (talking
back or refusing to cooperate with authorities), founded hazing or harassment of others resulting in suspension
from school. NOTE: This could include group conduct!
any other undesirable conduct not previously specified will be addressed at administrator discretion, and may
result in a student being denied the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities.
If a student transfers in from another Iowa school or school district and the student had not yet completed a period of
ineligibility for a violation of a Good Conduct Rule in the previous school, the student shall be ineligible if the
administration determines that there is general knowledge in our school district of the fact of the student's misconduct or
violation in the previous district.
Penalties:
Any student who, after a hearing before the administration, is found to have violated the Good Conduct Rule,
during the school year or summer, is subject to a loss of eligibility as follows, with the definition of school year
being July 1st through June 30th for purposes of defining the number of the offense only.
Self Reporting/Student Application for Assistance
Regrettably, students today may develop substance abuse problems or addiction. We want to encourage students facing
such problems to seek help. This policy is only available to those students who voluntarily seek help prior to a violation of
the Good Conduct Rule. Toward this end, if any student approaches an employee and requests assistance with a substance
abuse treatment/counseling program.
The following steps will be taken:
1. The employees will accompany the student to visit the principal.
2. The student’s parents will be called and asked to participate in the process.
3. The guidance counselor will be consulted, and a qualified agent or agency will be selected to conduct a formal
substance abuse evaluation.
4. Upon completion of the evaluation, the student may be expected to implement the treatment/counseling program
recommended. The student will waive the right to confidentiality to enable the district to monitor the student’s
progress and completion of the program.
5. As long as the student faithfully follows the treatment program as reported to and monitored by the school, the student
will remain eligible for extra-curricular activities.
6. A student may not use the application for assistance to prevent consequences of the Good Conduct Rule. For example,
a student who is found in possession of alcohol by a law enforcement officer may not come to a school official
immediately afterward, request assistance for a substance abuse program, and therefore escape consequences.
7. Continued eligibility will be granted only one time in a student’s 6-12 school career. Assistance will still be given if
needed again after the first instance but the student will not remain immune from the consequences during subsequent
treatment/counseling programs.
Exclusion from Participation in Extra-Curricular Activities
Procedures for Excluding Student from Participation in Extra-Curricular Activities. The building principal or
Superintendent may exclude a student from participation in extracurricular activities for a period of time to be determined
by the building principals or superintendent for violation of a district policy, rule, regulation or directive or for violation of
a rule in effect for participants in the activity. Procedures for excluding students from participation in extra-curricular
activities shall be the same as those procedures for short-term suspensions as outlined in Section 502.2. Prior to any
exclusion for violation of a rule in effect for participants in an activity, the building principal shall approve the rules and
the participants shall be notified of the rules. Posting of the rules in an area where the participants meet shall be deemed
sufficient notice.
First Offense Within the School Year- Six (6) weeks of ineligibility. (For "mere presence" violations, see item 5 under
"Reduction in Penalty.")
Second Offense Within the School Year – Twelve (12) weeks of ineligibility. (For "mere presence" violations, see item 5,
"Reduction in Penalty.")
Third or More Offense Within the School Year - Twelve (12) calendar months of ineligibility. (For "mere presence"
violations, see item 5 under "Reduction in Penalty" section below.)
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1. The period of ineligibility attaches immediately upon a finding of a violation if the student is eligible for and currently
engaged in an extracurricular activity and, if not, or if not completed during the current activity, is begun or carried over
to the time the student seeks to go out for the next activity or contest. For extra – curricular events that do not have a
defined season set by the state, the 6 week / 12 week ineligibility period will begin 3 weeks prior to the first scheduled
event.
2. However, if the period of time between a violation and an activity is twelve calendar months or more, the student shall
not serve an ineligibility period for the violation.
3. An ineligible student shall attend all practices or rehearsals but may not "suit up" nor perform/participate.
4. If a student drops out of an activity prior to completion of the ineligibility period, the full penalty or the remainder of
the penalty, at the administration's discretion, will attach when the student next seeks to go out for an activity, subject to
the 12-month limitation above.
5. If a student violates the Good Conduct Rule while ineligible due to an earlier violation, the penalty for the subsequent
offense will attach at the completion of the earlier penalty.
Reduction in Penalty:
1. Evaluation and Treatment: A student who has a second violation of the alcohol or drug provision of the Good Conduct
Rule may elect to seek an evaluation and, if recommended, treatment from a recognized substance abuse facility at the
student's or student's family's expense. If the student seeks the evaluation and agrees to waive confidentiality to allow the
evaluating facility to report back to the superintendent or designee regarding recommendations for treatment or followup care, the student's penalty for the second violation may be reduced by three (3) weeks. This reduction is not available
for first or third violations.
2. Admission Prior to Determination: If a student comes forward to a coach, administrator, or activity sponsor to admit
(self-report) a violation of the Good Conduct Rule prior to a finding of guilt by the administration, the student's penalty
may be reduced by three (3) weeks for a first or second violation, or three (3) months for a third violation within the
school year.
3. A student who has been found to have violated one or both of the provisions described above prohibiting conduct that
would be grounds for arrest or citation, or conduct that is grossly inappropriate or offensive, may seek to reduce the
penalty by entering into a Behavior Agreement. The Agreement shall be in writing and shall include, but not be limited to,
an oral apology for the student's behavior to affected parties, restitution where appropriate, and a presentation before
students in the elementary and middle schools regarding the inappropriateness of the student's behavior. The degree of
reduction of the penalty in such situations shall rest with the administrator.
4. Items 1 and 2 or 2 and 3 of this section may be combined for step 2 only.
5. A student who violates the "mere presence" provision of this policy shall serve no more than one-half of the established
penalty for the first, second, or third/subsequent violation.
Violations Occurring During Ineligibility:
If a student is ineligible at the time of a violation of the Good Conduct Rule, the penalty for the violation will not begin
until the student regains eligibility. Example: A student violates the Good Conduct Rule and is ruled ineligible for three
weeks. While ineligible, the student again violates the Rule. The second penalty attaches when the first penalty is
completed.
School Discipline:
There will be no school consequences for the violation (e.g., detention, suspension, expulsion from school, or grade
reduction/withholding) unless the violation of the Good Conduct Rule occurred (a) on school grounds, (b) at a school
event regardless of location, or (c) the violation has a direct and immediate negative impact on the efficient operation of
the school despite occurring off school grounds/time.
Appeals:
Any student who is found by the administration to have violated the Good Conduct Rule may obtain review of this
determination to the superintendent by contacting the superintendent within 3 days of being advised of the violation. The
penalty will be in effect until reversed. If the student is still dissatisfied, he or she may seek further review by the school
board by filing a written appeal with the board secretary at least 24 hours prior to the next board meeting. A special
meeting of the board will not be called. The review by the board will be in closed session unless the student's parent (or
the student, if the student is 18) requests an open session. The grounds for review by the school board are limited to the
following: the student did not violate the Good Conduct Rule; the student was given inadequate due process in the
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investigation and determination; or the penalty is in violation of the Handbook Rule or Board Policy. The penalty will
remain in effect pending the outcome of the meeting with the board.
If the school board reverses the decision of the administration, the student shall be immediately eligible and shall have any
record of the ineligibility period and violation deleted from the student's record.
Model Grievance Procedure
Students, parents of students, employees, and applicants for employment in the West Harrison school district shall have
the right to file a formal complaint alleging discrimination under federal or state regulations requiring non-discrimination
in programs and employment.
Level One – Principal, Immediate Supervisor or Personnel Contact Person
(Informal and Optional – may be bypassed by the grievance) A student, a parent of a student or an applicant for
employment with a complaint of discrimination based upon their gender, race, national origin, religion, age, marital status
or disability are encouraged to first discuss it with the instructor, counselor, supervisor, building administrator, program
administrator or personnel contact person directly involved.
Level Two – The Equity Coordinator
If the grievance is not resolved at level one and the grievant wish to pursue the grievance, they may formalize it by filing a
complaint in writing on a grievance filing form, which may be obtained from the educational equity coordinator. The
complaint shall state the nature of the grievance and the remedy requested. The filing of the formal, written complaint at
level two must be within fifteen (15) working days from the date of the event giving rise to the grievance, or from the date
the grievant could reasonable become aware of such occurrence. The grievant may request that a meeting concerning the
complaint be held with the Educational Equity Coordinator. A minor student may be accompanied at the meeting by a
parent or guardian. The Equity Coordinator shall investigate the complaint and attempt to resolve it. A written report from
the Equity Coordinator regarding action taken will be sent to the involved parties within fifteen (15) working days after
receipt of the complaint.
Level Three – The Grievance Committee
If the grievance is not resolved at level two, the grievant may appeal it at level three by presenting a written appeal to the
Grievance Committee within ten (10) working days after the grievant receive the report from the Equity Coordinator. The
Grievance Committee shall include five persons including one administrator, one instructor, one
instructor/teacher/consultant one classified/non-certified employee, one student and one parent/community representative.
At least two members of the Grievance Committee shall be selected from the current Educational Equity Advisory
Committee (Multi-cultural, Nonsexist education/Affirmative Action Advisory Committee (s). The Grievance committee
shall include both men and women and reflect racial/ethnic diversity and persons with disabilities when possible. The
grievant may request a meeting with the Grievance Committee to discuss the appeal and the Grievance Committee may
request a meeting with the grievant. A decision will be rendered by the Grievance Committee within ten (10) working
days after receipt of the written appeal.
Level Four – Superintendent/Administrator
If the complaint is not resolved at level two, the grievant may appeal it to level four by presenting a written appeal to the
Superintendent/Administrator within ten (10) working days after the grievant receives the report from the Grievance
Committee. The grievant may request a meeting with the Superintendent/Administrator or his/her designee. The
Superintendent/Administrator may request a meeting with the grievant to discuss the appeal. A decision will be rendered
by the Superintendent/Administrator or his/her designee within ten (10) working days after the receipt of the written
appeal.
This procedure in no way denies the right of the grievant to file formal complaints with the Iowa Civil Rights
Commission, the federal Office of Civil Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or the Iowa Department
of Education for mediation or rectification of civil rights grievances, or to seek private counsel for complaints alleging
discrimination. The Educational Equity Coordinator is: Mr. Joel Foster
410 Pine Street
Mondamin, IA 51557
712-646-2231
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Healthy Kids Act 2009
Enacted by the 2009 Iowa Legislature
Effective July 1, 2009
Physical activity timeline – Beginning July 1, 2009, school districts must ensure that physically able pupils in grades
six through twelve shall engage in physical activity for a minimum of 120 minutes per week in which there are at least
five school days of school.
Physical activity overview – First, “physical activity” means “any movement, manipulation, or exertion of the body that
can lead to improved levels of physical fitness and quality of life.” Students in grades nine through twelve may meet the
120-minute physical activity requirement by participation in the following activities including, but not limited to:
1. Interscholastic athletics sponsored by the Iowa High School Athletic Association or Iowa Girls High School Athletic
Union;
2. School-sponsored marching band, show choir, dance, drill, cheer, or similar activities;
3. Non-school gymnastics, dance, team sports, individual sports; or
4. Similar endeavors that involve movement, manipulation, or exertion of the body. [This may include work activities,
such as on the family farm or at the local grocery store, if work meeting the above definition of physical activity is
involved.]
If the physical activity is to be met in full or in part by a student using one or more non-school activities, then the school
shall enter into a written agreement with the student. The written physical activity agreement must meet the following
requirements:
1. It shall state the nature of the activity and the starting and ending dates of the activity, and shall provide sufficient
information about the duration of time of the activity each week.
2. It shall be signed by the school principal or principal’s designee.
3. It shall be signed by at least one parent or guardian of the student if the student is a minor.
4. It shall be signed by the student, regardless of the student’s age.
5. The agreement may be no longer than one school year.
If a student’s parent or guardian files a written statement with the school principal that the physical activity requirement
conflicts with the student’s religious beliefs, then the school shall not require the performance of such activities.
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Physical Activity Contract
2011-2012 School Year
In 2008, the Iowa Legislature enacted the “Healthy Kids Act”, requiring that all students in grades 6-12 engage in physical
activity for a minimum of 120 minutes per week in which there are at least five days of school. The law also requires that
we monitor how students fulfill this requirement.
Please fill out the items below, sign (both student and parent/guardian), and return to the school by September 15,
2011. If you have any questions, call 712-646-2231.
Name of Student:___________________________________ Grade (2011-2012):_____
School activities that student will be involved in during the 2011-2012 school year. Include estimate of minutes per week:
Fall
Winter
Spring______________
Cross country_____________
Basketball______________
Track______________
Football_________________
Wrestling_______________
Golf_______________
Volleyball_______________
Bowling________________
Tennis_____________
Swimming_______________
Swimming (boys)__________
Soccer_____________
Marching band____________
Show choir_______________
Baseball____________
Cheerleading_____________
Cheerleading______________
Softball_____________
Drill team_______________
Drill team_________________
Pom squad_____________
Trapshooting____________
Other* (what, when, how many minutes per week) ___________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
*Non-school activities (may include non-school sport teams, gymnastics, dance, individualized exercise program, etc.)
that student will be involved in during the 2011-2012 school year.
Signature of Student:________________________________________ Date Signed:________________
Signature of Parent/Guardian:__________________________________________
Signature of Building Principal:_______________________________________
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West Harrison Community Schools
Computer/Internet Acceptable Use Policy
Computers and the Internet are available to students and staff to enhance the curriculum and promote educational excellence.
Use of school computers and the Internet is a privilege not a right and access will be provided to those who agree to act in a
considerate and responsible manner. Information sent or received by e-mail, the Internet or other means over the computers
available to students and staff is the property of the West Harrison Community Schools and may be accessed at any time by
the West Harrison Community Schools for its review. In the event that a review reveals that this policy has been violated in
any way or that the privilege of using the computer and the Internet is being abused in any way, appropriate action will be
taken against the individual or individuals involved. Violations will be referred to a school administrator for disciplinary or
legal action. Building administrators will determine the consequence for inappropriate use that includes, but is not limited to
loss of computer/Internet use. Some consequences may be based on policies established in the Student Handbook. Other
violations may be covered by Federal and State law.
Users may not:
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Change in any way the configuration of a computer or network without permission of instructional staff.
Damage or vandalize computers, computer systems or networks.
Trespass in other folders, work or files or use another’s password.
Intentionally waste resources, such as paper, ink cartridges, ribbons, storage space, diskettes, etc.
Use computers/Internet for any purpose that is inconsistent with the educational purpose intended.
Use computers/Internet to play non-educational games or other non-academic activities.
Use computers/Internet for commercial purposes.
Use computers/Internet for political lobbying.
Participate in any type of teleconferencing or chat without permission of instructional staff.
Use e-mail and instant messaging without instructional staff permission/supervision.
Send, display, play or receive offensive messages, pictures, audio or other media which is defamatory, abusive, obscene,
profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive or intended to harass.
Use computers/Internet for the transmission of material in violation of U.S. or Iowa regulation. This includes, but is not
limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or materials protected by trade secret.
Download files, programs or join listservs or newsgroups without express permission of instructional staff.
Store/Save unnecessary and/or non-educational files on the server.
Store/Save more than 30 music/sound files on any school computer(s) unless written authorization is given by a teacher
or administrator.
Play music or any sound loudly and/or that disrupts classes or other people.
Network Etiquette
Users are expected to follow the rules of network etiquette. These include but are not limited to the following:
 Be polite and appropriate in your messages
 Use appropriate language. Swearing and obscene language are strictly prohibited.
 Students may not reveal personal name, address or phone number or those of other people over the Internet.
 Faculty/staff may not reveal student personal information over the Internet.
 Be considerate of others using the network.
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Computer/Internet Acceptable Use Agreement
West Harrison Community Schools
Student Agreement to Comply
I have read and understand the computer/Internet acceptable use policy. I understand that the use of school computers
including Internet access is a privilege not a right. I also understand that my failure to comply with the policy could result in
loss of use privileges or other disciplinary action.
Signature:_________________________________________________ Date:_____________________
Student Name: (Please Print)__________________________________ Grade:____________
Parent or Guardian Agreement to Comply
As the parent or guardian of this student I have read and understand the computer/Internet acceptable use policy. I
understand that the use of school computers including Internet access is a privilege not a right. I also understand that it is
technically impossible for West Harrison Public Schools to restrict access to all controversial material and that my child
holds the real responsibility to avoid questionable materials and communications. I will not hold West Harrison Community
Schools responsible for any materials acquired by my child using the schools computers. Computers and the Internet are
available to students to enhance the curriculum and promote educational excellence. I give permission for my child to have
computer/Internet access.
Signature:__________________________________________________ Date:____________________
Name (Please Print)__________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Web Publishing Agreement
West Harrison Community Schools maintains web pages for each school and the district. Photo images, names, and student
work are sometimes displayed on the web pages as a means of communicating and sharing student achievements with the
community and other schools. Examples of such displays include sports teams and captains, play casts, art work/show
winners, writing contest winners, etc. I understand that these images may be viewed by other persons accessing the World
Wide Web who are not part of the educational community. I give my permission to West Harrison Community Schools to
display on the school web pages pictures of my child, his/her work, and name, as they relate to activities, projects, and
programs at the school. Names and photos will not be displayed together.
Signature:____________________________________________________ Date:__________________
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If you have no objections to the use of student information, you do not need to return this form.
West Harrison Community School District
Parental Directions to Withhold Student/Directory Information for Education Purposes, for the 2011-2012 School
Year
Student Name:_________________________________ Date of Birth:___________________
School:__________________________________________Grade:________________________
________________________________________________ ________________________
Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian/Custodian of Child
Date
This form must be returned to your child’s school no later than September 15, 2011. Additional forms are available at your
child’s school.
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STUDENT HANDBOOK FORM – PARENT/GUARDIAN
I have received the West Harrison CSD Student Handbook and understand that the regulations outlined therein will be
followed. I understand that should there ever be a question about compliance with these regulations, I may request a
conference with the principal to discuss the matter.
Signatures:
Parent/Guardian___________________________________________
Date________________________
This form must be returned to your child’s school no later than September 15, 2011.
STUDENT HANDBOOK FORM - STUDENT
I have received the West Harrison CSD Student Handbook and understand that the regulations outlined therein will be
followed. I understand that should there ever be a question about compliance with these regulations, I may request a
conference with the principal to discuss the matter.
Signatures:
Student___________________________________________
Date________________________
This form must be returned to your child’s school no later than September 15, 2011.
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